The best surf destinations for beginner surfers

Last Updated on 07/05/2026 by Marlene Marques

Surfing is a popular sport that is enjoyed by people all over the world. However, if you’re starting out and like to travel, choosing a suitable destination for your skill level can be overwhelming.

If you’re a beginner surfer, you’ll want to find a place that offers calm waters, easy-to-learn breaks, and plenty of practice opportunities.

These five locations are considered some of the best surf destinations for beginner surfers. Also, each country offers a totally different cultural experience, and I’m sure you won’t regret it if you visit them all!

Just starting? Try these surf destinations for beginner surfers

Byron Bay, Australia

This iconic town in New South Wales is an excellent surf destination for beginner surfers. With its warm water and numerous surf schools, Byron Bay is perfect for learning how to surf. The town’s Main Beach is famous, offering gentle waves and a relaxed atmosphere.

While you’re out of the water, visit the farmer’s market or the fantastic local cafes.

Canggu, Bali

Bali is one of the most famous surf destinations in the world, and Canggu is a great spot if you are a beginner surfer. With its warm water, long beach breaks, and plenty of surf schools, Canggu is an ideal place to learn how to surf.

In addition to being an excellent destination for surfers, Canggu is also known for its vibrant surf culture, making it a fun and exciting place to be.

On my last trip to Bali, the Crate and the Shady Shack were my favorite coffee shops in the area, so be sure to check them out between your surf sessions.

Surfboards to take to your surf destination if you’re a beginner surfer

If you’re just starting out, my recommendation is that you rent a surfboard at your destination with the help of a surf instructor. But if you want to take your own surfboard, your best bet would be a foam board or a mini-malibu. I would stay away from longboards as they are more difficult to travel with, and airline companies normally charge more for their transportation.

Santa Teresa, Costa Rica

Santa Teresa is a popular surf town on the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica. With its warm water, consistent waves, and friendly locals, Santa Teresa is among the best surf destinations for beginner surfers. In addition, the town has a good range of surf schools, so you can easily find an instructor to help you get started.

In your free time, take a day trip to Tortuga Island, join a yoga class, ride a horse on the beach or enjoy the local surf vibe.

Taghazout, Morocco

Taghazout is a small fishing village on the Atlantic coast of Morocco. With its warm water, consistent waves, and numerous surf schools, Taghazout is a wonderful location for beginner surfers. In addition to being a great place to surf, Taghazout is also known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant surf culture, making it a fun and exciting place to visit.

Peniche, Portugal

Of course, I have to include one of my favorite places to surf in Portugal!

Peniche is the perfect surf destination for beginner surfers. It has several nice beach breaks that offer gentle, long-rolling waves ideal for learning the basics of surfing. Also, several surf schools and instructors in town offer lessons and equipment rentals, making it easy for visitors to get started with surfing.

In conclusion, with their easy-to-learn breaks and plenty of practice opportunities, these surf destinations are the perfect place to get started in the sport. So pack your board, grab your sunscreen, and hit the waves!

By the way, Remember to do travel insurance if you are a beginner surfer!

Choose Heymondo travel insurance, which covers water sports, like surfing, and for being a Marlene On The Move reader, you get a 5% discount.

Best surf destinations for beginner surfers